The first presidential debate is Friday night, but the chattering classes are already chattering about the October 2 vice presidential debate because of a rules change that, in effect, could protect Sarah Palin from herself.
As first reported in the New York Times, the McCain campaign fought for — and won – shorter Q and A segments for the vice presidential candidates and less opportunity for direct, free-wheeling exchanges between Palin and Joe Biden. “McCain advisers said they had been concerned that a loose format could leave Ms. Palin, a relatively inexperienced debater, at a disadvantage and largely on the defensive,” the Times reported.
McCain-speak translates this way: “McCain advisers said they were only somewhat concerned about Ms. Palin’s debating skills compared with those of Mr. Biden, who has served six terms in the Senate, or about his chances of tripping her up. Instead, they say, they wanted Ms. Palin to have opportunities to present Mr. McCain’s positions, rather than spending time talking about her experience or playing defense.”
Alrighty. Heaven forbid she should waste a moment on her skimpy experience. That’s why we have news conferences, except Palin still has not had one and that’s unprecedented.
Friday’s Obama-McCain debate, with anticipated huge viewership, will not be subject to such restrictions. The Wall Street Journal says, “Obama advisers, for example, are considering how to provoke Sen. McCain into anger or showing what they say is how out of touch, or old, he is. Advisers have told Sen. McCain to watch out when Sen. Obama uses the phrase, “As I’ve said before…” One McCain adviser said it is used “when Obama actually changes his position, to pretend it’s what he’s always said.”"
The Journal also says Obama plans to work out or shoot hoops as part of his debate prep while McCain will host a town meeting and take a short nap.
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